Chrysanthemum
These classic botanicals are back in vogue, with an enticing array of bloom types and colors.
Fun facts:
WHAT’S IN A NAME The genus name “Dendranthema” comes from the Greek words dendron (tree) and anthos or anthemon (flower), in reference to these plants’ somewhat woody stems. “Chrysanthemum” is from the Greek words chrysos (golden) and anthos or anthemon (flower). The species name “Grandiflorum” means large flowered. The “X” in the botanical name means the plant is a hybrid of at least two species.
ALL IN THE FAMILY These flowers are members of the huge Asteraceae (Compositae) family. Close relatives include Gerberas, Dahlias, Zinnias, marguerites, sunflowers, marigolds, China asters and many more.
HOME SWEET HOME Chrysanthemums originated in China prior to 500 B.C. and we're introduced in Japan around A.D. 400 and into Europe (England) around 1795.
ROYAL TIES In the fifth century, the chrysanthemum became the emblem of Japan’s imperial family. The Chrysanthemum Throne is the common term for the Imperial Throne of Japan, the oldest continuing hereditary monarchy in the world (2,700 years, 125 monarchs).
Purchasing advice:
PETAL DROP Many types of disbud mums (single bloom per stem) are usually solid individually and unbunched. However they are sold - individually or bunched - inspect each bloom, even those that are “netted,” for damage causes shattering (petal drop).
FOLIAGE AND STEMS Make sure foliage is deep green (no yellowing and brown spots), crisp and turgid, and that stems are thick and strong.
